Despite all of the horror films that show otherwise, sharks are awesome. They help keep the ocean’s ecosystem balanced, they only attack an average of around 74 people per year, and, frankly, they’re darn cool. That said, they can still be dangerous, and I’m willing to bet any surfer would poop their pants if they knew there was a great white shark right underneath them.
According to The Sun, the presence of a great white shark did not deter the surfers at San Onofre Beach in California, and this video certainly seems to confirm that. I can’t imagine they didn’t know it was there, as it seems pretty clear through the water, but if I knew, I’d be on the beach in seconds.
According to the Florida Museum, just 57 unprovoked shark attacks occurred throughout 2022. An unprovoked attack is one in which the victim does not initiate an interaction with the shark. Additionally, 32 provoked attacks occurred throughout the year along with 4 boat bites.
Shark Safety
The state of Hawai’i recommends several steps to reduce the risk of a shark related injury. They are as follows:
- “Swim, surf, or dive with other people, and don’t move too far away from assistance.
- Stay out of the water at dawn, dusk, and night, when some species of sharks may move inshore to feed. But be aware that tiger sharks are known to bite people at all times of the day.
- Do not enter the water if you have open wounds or are bleeding in any way. Sharks can detect blood and body fluids in extremely small concentrations.
- Avoid murky waters, harbor entrances, and areas near stream mouths (especially after heavy rains), channels, or steep dropoffs. These types of waters are known to be frequented by sharks.
- Do not wear high-contrast clothing or shiny jewelry. Sharks see contrast very well.
- Refrain from excesive splashing; keep pets, which swim erratically, out of the water. Sharks are known to be attracted to such activity.
- Do not enter the water if sharks are known to be present, and leave the water quickly and calmly if one is sighted. Do not provoke or harass a shark, even a small one.
- If fish or turtles start to behave erratically, leave the water. Be alert to the presence of dolphins, as they are prey for some large sharks.
- Remove speared fish from the water or tow them a safe distance behind you. Do not swim near people fishing or spearfishing. Stay away from dead animals in the water.
- Swim or surf at beaches patrolled by lifeguards, and follow their advice.“
Related: Shark Prowls Between Florida Swimmers
Image Credit: The Sun via YouTube